Embark on the musical adventure of the handpan or hang drum, a sonic journey to enrich your quest for well-being and pure melody. This guide is specially designed for beginners who want to master this unique percussion instrument straight away.
We'll cover the basics, from choosing your first handpan, through the concepts of notes and scales, to the first playing techniques.
Get ready to turn your passion for the steel hang drum into a tangible skill, creating moments of tranquillity and harmony from the very first notes.
Read: Mastering the handpan through these advanced techniques
1. How can I learn to play the handpan quickly?
Mastering the handpan, that bewitching percussion instrument, quickly requires commitment and strategy. Here's an action plan to speed up your learning and guide your progress:
- Selecting the right instrument
- Use online resources
- Practise regularly
- Experimenting with music
- Receive feedback
By following these steps, you will optimise your musical journey with the handpan, quickly transforming your passion into a true artistic expression.
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2. Start learning on your own
Solo handpan initiation takes advantage of the brain's extraordinary capacity to learn and adapt quickly. This autonomous approach, with full concentration and progress at your own pace, is ideal for those who aspire to excel quickly.
There are two main ways to begin this learning process:
a. Online tutorials : An invaluable resource, offering a plethora of lessons and tips for getting started, exploring different techniques and progressing your handpan skills.
b. Dedicated learning methods : Guides and books specifically designed for learning the handpan, ideal for structuring your progress and developing a deep understanding of the instrument.
These options encourage personal exploration and experimentation, key elements in developing a unique and personal approach to handpan music. By embarking on this path, you will discover not only the basics but also the subtleties that make handpan playing so rewarding and therapeutic.
3. Follow videos on YouTube
YouTube is a marvel of the internet, and you need to be able to take advantage of it. There are videos on all sorts of subjects, and an impressive number of tutorials that describe in great detail the process of learning anything you want. Sometimes they are even sequenced over several days or weeks to help you learn more quickly.
What's more, by learning with YouTube videos, you have access to both sound and images. This makes it easier for your brain, so you can shorten your learning time. One advantage of the handpan is that you don't necessarily need a basic knowledge to play it. In other words, whatever your profile, it's accessible to you, so you can develop your own style.
4. Take lessons from top players like David Charrier
To excel in any field, it's always important to follow in the footsteps of the greats. That's why it's a good idea to follow free tutorials, which are often given by top players like David Charrier.
In most cases, they will explain their first steps, as well as the mistakes they made. They will even give you a few tips to make it easier for you to assimilate the notes.
Exercises will be suggested so that you can acquire your own basics and subsequently improve your techniques. David Charrier will tell you, for example, not to botch your first encounter with the handpan. When you play the hang drum, your first aim is not to put on a show and satisfy an audience. On the contrary, you must at all costs play for your own pride, you must play for your own pleasure, for your own satisfaction.
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5. Often seek professional assistance
If you plan to become a good hang drummer very quickly, it's obvious that you need outside help. If you learn on your own, you will certainly make progress, but it will be slow. To learn faster, with as few mistakes as possible, you need to hire a professional handpan player and someone you can trust.
a. Hire a handpan professional
There are many handpan teachers online. Admittedly, they charge a fee for their services, but if you apply yourself, you'll achieve your goals very quickly. With professionals, you'll have a precise learning programme. The days and duration of lessons are clearly defined. In short, rigour is the order of the day, so that your initial objectives are achieved more quickly.
If you have a flexible enough programme and the necessary financial resources, you can even opt for private lessons at home. Here, for example, you can learn how to sit better before playing. You'll also have the opportunity to learn how to hold your instrument properly, and to strike each note with the normal force or pressure. Thanks to private lessons, you will also be introduced to the musical ear, as well as perfect mastery of rhythmic cells.
b. Ask a player close to you for help
If you lack the financial means, you can always opt for free private lessons. To do this, just make an agreement with someone close to you who is used to playing the hang drum and has a good grasp of its various subtleties. If you're on good terms with them, they can help you for free, or charge you a low price.
What's more, someone who's close to you can easily share their experiences with you, and you don't necessarily feel taboo or embarrassed about asking questions. They're even more likely to tell you their little secrets of success, so that you can progress more quickly.
On the other hand, anyone who is close to you will have a less busy schedule, and will therefore be willing to help you even late at night if inspiration strikes. The relationship of trust that exists between you and your uncle, for example, improves your learning speed and helps you to be more inspired.
But there are no miracles in music. To progress faster and learn quickly, you need to train rigorously every day. Because without training and rigour on your part, it's impossible to improve quickly.
Explore our full collection here to choose the best hang drum for you.
6. Buying the right musical instrument
The quality of the handpan, as well as its appearance, is very important when you are just starting to learn the instrument. A poor-quality instrument considerably reduces your chances of producing attractive melodies. Similarly, the appearance of your hang drum is a key factor in motivating you to play regularly. If you're a nature lover, for example, a green handpan would suit you well, and will be motivating enough for you. It's available on our site, just click on the green handpan link to get your hands on one.
At ZenaPan, you'll not only find top-quality handpans, but also a wide range of colours and shapes. Whether you're a beginner or an intermediate player, we've got handpan models to suit you. The other advantage with us is that you receive your orders very quickly. The sustain is very well balanced, while the instrument itself is very solid.
What's more, the online shop allows you to place your order from wherever you are. Click on this new handpan link and you can already imagine receiving your handpan in perfect condition. ZenaPan offers you the option of paying for your new handpan in several instalments, up to six times. Order your own handpan from ZenaPan now.
7. Summary of techniques and tips for quickly mastering the handpan
To help you get to grips with the handpan or hang drum quickly, here's a summary table of the key techniques and tips:
| Technique/Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Choice of instrument | Choose a handpan suited to your level and your musical objectives, focusing on easy scales for beginners. |
| Daily practice | Devote a moment each day to practising to build up your skills and familiarity with the instrument. |
| Active listening | Listen to handpan pieces to develop your musical ear and inspire your own creativity. |
| Recording and feedback | Record your practice sessions to track your progress and get constructive feedback from your friends and the community. |
| Courses and community | Join online courses or groups dedicated to handpan to learn in a structured way and share experiences. |
These tips are designed to speed up your progress and enrich your musical experience with the handpan, making learning as enjoyable as it is effective.
Things to remember
Taking up the handpan or hang drum requires dedication and exploration. By following our advice, from choosing your instrument wisely to committing to regular practice and becoming part of a community, you'll discover the rich world of handpan music.
Whether it's for relaxation, composition, or simply the pleasure of playing, every note you play will bring you closer to artistic mastery and deep inner harmony with this unique instrument.
FAQs
1. How can beginners quickly learn to play the handpan or hang drum?
Beginners can start by familiarising themselves with basic handpan or hang drum techniques, such as hand positions and striking methods. Practice regularly to build muscle memory and develop a sense of rhythm and tone.
2. What are the benefits of playing the handpan or hang drum?
Playing the handpan or hang drum offers therapeutic benefits such as stress relief and relaxation. It also enhances musical creativity and provides a platform for personal expression through its melodic and percussive capabilities.
3. How long does it take to master playing the handpan or hang drum?
Mastery of the handpan or hang drum varies based on individual dedication and practice. With consistent practice and guidance, beginners can achieve proficiency within a few months to a year.
4. Is the hang drum easy to learn for beginners?
Yes, the hang drum is designed to be relatively easy for beginners to learn due to its intuitive layout and simple playing techniques. With proper guidance and practice, beginners can quickly grasp basic rhythms and melodies on the instrument.
5. What makes the handpan or hang drum a unique musical instrument?
The handpan or hang drum is unique for its resonant sound, which combines melodic and percussive elements. Its distinct shape and tuned notes allow for versatile musical expression across various genres and styles.
6. Where can I find handpan or hang drum lessons in the UK?
Handpan or hang drum lessons in the UK can be found through music schools, private instructors, or online platforms offering tutorials and courses. These resources provide structured learning to help beginners quickly develop their playing skills.